This one was not on my currently reading shelf. But it has been here waiting for me to read so that I could catch up on the series. And, not knowing eThis one was not on my currently reading shelf. But it has been here waiting for me to read so that I could catch up on the series. And, not knowing exactly when I would begin, it was easier just to make it a reading experience between me and this book. Actually, a couple of his books. I also just finished, 鈥淭he More the Terrier.鈥�
What exactly is a dog day afternoon? Well, if we look at the book cover, we certainly can find ourselves absolutely in love with that powder puff puppy. And, it doesn鈥檛 hurt that this same puppy is biting down on some money. But what does this all mean?
I鈥檇 like to believe that a 鈥榙og day afternoon鈥� refers to those hot, sleepy afternoons when people with their dogs just want to lay around and languish. Maybe take long, meandering walks and enjoy nature. Will this be possible in another Andy Carpenter series?
For anyone new to this series, please start at the beginning with 鈥淥pen and Shut.鈥� And, for more information on why I love this series, go to my reviews of 鈥淣ew Tricks鈥� and 鈥淟eader of the Pack.鈥� In both, I give background on Andy Carpenter, our main protagonist, his team and all that would make anyone want to adopt this as your new favorite series.
We begin this book with a mass shooting in an office that leaves 6 people dead (thankfully not graphically described), and a person being charged with it. But the supposed 鈥減erpetrator鈥� Nick Williams has his own story about what he was doing at the time of the murder. And, because he is one of Marcus鈥� proteges, Andy is willing to defend him.
鈥溾€ would like to know what would make a guy like that walk in and coldly gun down six people, five of whom he worked with.鈥�
So, is his story true? And, if he wasn鈥檛 the killer, who was? And, why?
With many twists and turns, this cozy mystery with an interesting premise that is not clear to readers early on, will no doubt please readers/fans.
I decided not to put this one on my currently reading list. I had been reading so many heavily emotional books lately, I just wanted to escape to a seI decided not to put this one on my currently reading list. I had been reading so many heavily emotional books lately, I just wanted to escape to a series that felt familiar and cozy.
Premise: Upon returning home from vacation, Andy Carpenter finds himself greeted by 4 dogs. Having only 3 dogs, the family is a bit confused, until they recognize that the cute terrier is Murphy. Murphy is a sweet rescue they took care of before he was adopted by a mom and her teenage son, BJ.
So, what was Murphy doing at their home? As it turns out, BJ is currently in custody for the murder of a visiting University professor. Knowing that anyone who loved dogs as much as BJ did, Andy decides to defend him. Because a dog-lover like BJ has to be innocent. Right? And, that is the best reason for a deserved defense by Andy Carpenter.
So, if BJ didn鈥檛 do it, who set him up and why? And, why would anyone kill a University professor? And, who paid for BJ鈥檚 original attorney who just wanted him to plead out and doesn鈥檛 seem to listen to his own client鈥檚 cries of innocence?
What is really going on here?
Readers are immediately re-introduced to Andy鈥檚 team. Sam Willis an accountant and computer whiz; Corey Douglas, an ex-cop and a partner in Andy鈥檚 wife, Laurie鈥檚 investigative firm; Simon Garfunkel the retired-police dog; Laurie, Andy鈥檚 wife and a retired cop; Eddie Dowd, a fellow attorney; Edna, Andy鈥檚 do-nothing secretary; and, Marcus a man of few words, who you never want to be caught in a fight with at any time, but appreciate if he is the one defending you.
And, there is always opportunity to appreciate the author鈥檚 sense of humor when Andy shares within his narrative鈥�
鈥淚鈥檓 in bed watching a football game with the sound off, and Laurie is reading a new book by her favorite author, David Rosenfelt. I don鈥檛 get it; I tried reading one and it was like sucking sawdust through a straw.鈥�
And then he has Andy say鈥�
鈥淐an I turn out the lights?鈥�
To which Laurie replies鈥�
鈥淚 just want to read a few more pages. I love this guy.鈥�
For anyone new to this series, please start at the beginning with 鈥淥pen and Shut.鈥� And, for more information on why I love this series, go to my reviews of 鈥淣ew Tricks鈥� and 鈥淟eader of the Pack.鈥� In both, I give background on Andy Carpenter, our main protagonist, and all the reasons why anyone would want to adopt this as their new favorite series.
As readers get more into the story, they learn about the victim and his 鈥渉abits.鈥� Could this be a contributor to his death? Or, was his research important enough for someone to kill him? Mostly, what could be gained by his death? And, could any of this put Andy Carpenter and his client鈥檚 life in danger?
With this series typical sense of humor, twisty plot, surprise ending; and, compelling characters, Rosenfelt delivers another fun and engrossing story for readers/fans.
I was sad when Baldacci ended his 鈥楥amel Club鈥� series. But I was particularly frustrated because I could never find a copy of this book inCatching up鈥�
I was sad when Baldacci ended his 鈥楥amel Club鈥� series. But I was particularly frustrated because I could never find a copy of this book in the series. So, in many ways I felt like I was incomplete in having all the parts of the 鈥楥amel Club.鈥� So, when this one was recently donated to my Little Free Library Shed, I couldn鈥檛 help but feel a sense of glee that I would finally be able to read it.
The 鈥淐amel Club鈥� is a group led by Oliver Stone, a former CIA-trained assassin. They investigate political conspiracies. There are 4 members besides Oliver which include Milton Farb, Caleb Shaw, Reuben Rhodes and honorary member, Alex Ford. Each person brings a unique set of skills to the table and to their own investigations. This is the second book in the series.
Readers who enjoy reoccurring characters who fight for a cause will appreciate the 鈥楥amel Club鈥檚鈥� camaraderie. The story balances it with intrigue and espionage. Which feels true to form for their mission. After all, this group鈥檚 purpose is to keep the government accountable to the people. They are talented men who now are taking on dangerous cases because something is not right in government.
This one was published in 2006, but re-visiting it only makes me nostalgic for what I came to appreciate about this group when I first was introduced to them in book 1, 鈥淭he Camel Club.鈥�
Still, I can鈥檛 help but wonder鈥�
Could there possibly be a real-life version of the Camel Club out there, please? ...more
This is the 3rd installment of the 鈥淐amel Club鈥� series. The 鈥淐amel Club鈥� is a group led by Oliver Stone, a former CIA-trained assassin. ThCatching up鈥�
This is the 3rd installment of the 鈥淐amel Club鈥� series. The 鈥淐amel Club鈥� is a group led by Oliver Stone, a former CIA-trained assassin. They investigate political conspiracies. There are 4 members besides Oliver which include Milton Farb, Caleb Shaw, Reuben Rhodes and honorary member, Alex Ford. Each person brings a unique set of skills to the table and to their own investigations.
In this story, we get more of Oliver鈥檚 back story. A past that may be too present for comfort, as members of an elite force called Triple-Six, have been dying under suspicious circumstances. So, even though Oliver鈥檚 true identity is dead and buried, having been a part of this elite force back in the day, could someone out there know his truth? Is Oliver in danger now?
This is a fast-paced, riveting roller-coaster action thriller that will have many twists and turns to make readers almost dizzy. While this could be read as a stand-alone, it may be more fulfilling if readers start with the first book, 鈥淭he Camel Club.鈥�...more
I read this one years ago, but it was nice to catch up and re-visit it when the book was recently donated to my Little Free Library Shed. Catching up鈥�
I read this one years ago, but it was nice to catch up and re-visit it when the book was recently donated to my Little Free Library Shed.
This story is based on a true one, about a man who was accepted as a member of a wild pack of wolves 鈥� his new, alternate family. And then, this same man is seen in a coma from a traumatic brain injury. This accident and status of the man becomes a difficult dilemma for his human family who aren鈥檛 sure whether to let him die naturally or keep him on life support. And, in typical form, Jodi has taken up another cause for readers to debate. Which makes this the ultimate story for book discussion groups.
As an author, she has a gift for taking controversy and mixing it up with strong-minded, likable, flawed characters wrapped in a plot that creates an emotionally stirring reading experience.
Readers will have the opportunity to hear multiple P.O.V.鈥檚 and tackle mysteries to be resolved. And, the story of the wolf which is beautifully woven throughout, allows nature to take a center-stage with its humans.
It may seem like too much to some readers, but it does give readers an opportunity to pause and consider that we are not the only life on this planet to be considered. We can learn a lot from our animal communities.
And of course, there is the message of the right to die, especially to those that are beloved by us.
Sometimes what we do for animals on the precipice of death, and how animals are towards each other when death is pending, feels more humane. Any way you look at the subject, it will most likely be a difficult and emotional debate/discussion to have with one another. ...more
鈥淲rite the truest thing you know. Dear reader, this is it.鈥�
I have been a fan of this author for years. In fact, it was years ago, that our Library Boo鈥淲rite the truest thing you know. Dear reader, this is it.鈥�
I have been a fan of this author for years. In fact, it was years ago, that our Library Book Discussion Group discussed, 鈥淐aleb鈥檚 Crossing鈥� which was quite a compelling conversation. I loved her story, 鈥淧eople of the Book,鈥� and was completely taken in by 鈥淗orse.鈥� If you are interested in my reviews for any of these books, I have included the links below.
So, when I heard about her memoir, I was in.
What happens when your life partner dies unexpectedly? How does one cope? This is what faced the author. Suddenly, her husband of 35 years, Tony Horwitz, successful author/journalist and Pulitzer Prize Winner for National Reporting (1995), 60-years young, collapsed and died while on his own book tour.
鈥淚 stood there and suppressed that howl. Because I was alone, and no one could help me. And if I let go, if I fell, I might not be able to get back up. (Nearly 4 years later鈥�) That howl has become the beast in the basement of my heart. I need to find a way to set it free.鈥�
How many of us have ever wondered what we would do, or how we would be if we ever faced a similar moment? For me, I don鈥檛 want to go there. I value present moment living. I don鈥檛 want to project myself into an unknown future, that can create anxiety and angst.
But still, what if?
I have to believe for any of us, if faced with something similar, we would need inner strength. Resilience. The ability to cope. And, not some thoughts that would take us to a worst-case scenario.
And, yet, this was the moment in which a phone call created a reality Brooks was unprepared for 鈥� and perhaps any of us would be unprepared for, especially if we were miles away from our loved one.
What would happen next?
For this author, she needed to find a way to cope with her grief. Which comes nearly 4 years later, by way of a solo trip to Flinders Island, a remote island off the coast of Tasmania. Her husband died on the American holiday, Memorial Day in 2019, and this will be her opportunity to begin her own memorial days. (Hence the title of the book.)
鈥溾€o feel the immensity of his loss.鈥�
And, part of her journey will be going back and forth in time in sharing that horrible phone call alert moment of loss, as well as her loving relationship that encompassed life with Tony. And, all the people touched by his loss.
And, we, her readers will be her calming, soothing partners as we thoughtfully hold her hand through this journey. She may not know we are there, but we do. Because we are in touch with her feelings and her experience and her thoughts, and we are moved. And, heart-broken along with her. We know loss in our own ways. We have experienced losses of partners, or parents, or friends, or important relatives, or pets. And, we know the heartache. So, we are with her. Feeling her words. Her sorrow. Her loneliness. Her love. Her disbelief. Her immense grief. And, need to help hold it together, despite it all.
In some ways, I am reminded of Amy Bloom鈥檚 devastatingly beautiful memoir, 鈥淚n Love鈥� where she helped her husband, Brian Ameche, achieve assisted death. Obviously, the circumstances were different, but the expression of love shared by both women for their husbands, was whole-hearted.
Still, as I kept reading, I couldn鈥檛 help but feel her words were personally relatable.
鈥淲ho will die first? Because I was older, because I survived cancer鈥�, I did not ask that question. I just assumed it would be me.鈥�
So, many times I will reflect with humor and truthfulness to my husband, who is 5 years younger, that it is a good thing he is younger. Because I honestly would not know what to do without him. I have enjoyed him being my partner, my protector, my caregiver during the cancer journey, my best friend, and my forever love who I appreciate beyond words. So, much of the simple tasks of life, like driving, or grocery shopping, which he prefers to do, and I prefer not to do. So, he does it for both of us. (I am still intimidated by our electric car.) As a senior software specialist during his career, even in retirement, he continues to be tech savvy. Where the simplest problem, has me shrieking out in frustration. And yet, he just comes in, and with a simple key stroke, it is fixed.
At the same time, I want to consider the tasks of shared living with my partner, so that if something were to happen, I would know how to cope in his absence. I know I avoid these thoughts, but I also know it is something I need to consider seriously. If I should suddenly be alone. And, before that should ever happen, if it does.
But I still assume it will be me going first. But what if it isn鈥檛? Even if I am not ready to go there, Brooks had no choice. She was there.
鈥淚nstead, I am here. Missing him. Alone.鈥�
How does one live within their sorrow?
For Brooks, it was to learn to return to the 鈥渃omplicated grief鈥� and 鈥渞elive the trauma of the death.鈥� It may sound maudlin, but there was much to appreciate in the author鈥檚 journey of doing so.
Because what we are learning along the way is what she came to appreciate in feeling all her emotions 鈥� to 鈥渕ake more time for the beauty.鈥� Notice everything. Experience everything. Feel everything. Celebrate the moment, because it has 鈥渢he power to elevate us out of sadness.鈥� Where those enveloped in grief can give themselves time and space to be with their feelings. There is no deadline for getting over grief. And, we shouldn鈥檛 expect one.
This is a beautifully written, thoughtful, heart-felt and deeply emotional memoir.
For those who want to understand the impacts of grief or are attempting to process their own grief, readers will appreciate her experience and thoughts. Lovers of this author will value her intimate telling of her love story and grief journey.
Lastly鈥wo things to do before leaving this book.
First, read the author鈥檚 Afterword.
Second, take a look at the back cover insert. There is a pensive picture of the author having coffee with her husband. It is a moment in time, with smiles, that appears precious and thoughtful. Reminding all of us to treasure all those moments we may take for granted. Because, we truly have no idea of what tomorrow will bring.
I saw this book when I was doing a library search for another one. I was attracted to the cartoon characters of a polar bear and a penguin.
The story I saw this book when I was doing a library search for another one. I was attracted to the cartoon characters of a polar bear and a penguin.
The story begins with Virgil, a penguin who found a polar bear and decides, 鈥溾€鈥檓 keeping him.鈥� And, off they go on fun ice adventures with other animals. But as Owen, the polar bear had fun on every adventure they went on, Virgil did not. Why?
What happens when we become possessive? Do we deny others the opportunity for fun? Or deny ourselves this opportunity? Why can鈥檛 we share in the joys of discovery together and with others?
Eventually, we can learn that we are on this journey in life with others. And, perhaps even find enjoyment that can lead to friendship.
This story has wonderful teaching lessons for kids of all ages.
I love the Andy Carpenter series. I love that no matter what happens, there are always dogs in the story 鈥� with happy endings. So, there is something I love the Andy Carpenter series. I love that no matter what happens, there are always dogs in the story 鈥� with happy endings. So, there is something to be said about this attorney, Andy Carpenter, who is also the founder of the Tara Foundation (named after his golden retriever, Tara) that is a dog rescue organization.
And, as readers who love a bit of courtroom drama and a cozy mystery that needs to be solved, we can usually count on it in each of his stories, too.
Also, as a series, if readers can read the books in order, that is certainly encouraged. First book in the series, 鈥淥pen and Shut鈥� review here: /review/show...
But for me, I always appreciate the donations to my Little Free Library Shed, especially if it was a book in the series I missed. And, that is the case with this one. And, since I have been very familiar with everything about this series, I was still comfortable reading this one out-of-order.
The other thing that I can always count on with Rosenfelt鈥檚 writing, is a formula that works. Typically, I grow weary with formulaic stories. But for some reason, this one resonates with me. He always starts off his first chapter (which gratefully are always short) with something 鈥渇oreboding.鈥� And then, he weaves it into the story where finally whatever happened in that first chapter catches up to the rest of the story, seamlessly.
Oh, and did I mention the sense of humor displayed throughout his books? That is part of the series charm, too.
鈥淎s far as I know, Tara hasn鈥檛 barked it to a soul.鈥�
And, of course there is always a dog on the book cover to capture readers hearts and attention.
Well, now that I got all these things out of the way, to share with you, let鈥檚 get on with the review of this particular book.
So, what trouble does Andy Carpenter find himself in now? Or, in Andy鈥檚 world, who might he be defending and why?
In this story, readers learn that there are some cases that Andy hasn鈥檛 won as a defense attorney. As the narrator, Andy explains that he believed they were truly innocent even if they were found guilty by a jury of peers. And, in those cases where he has gained quite an attachment to the client, he does his best to visit those that are still incarcerated for the crime. Like Joey Desimone.
When visiting Joey Desimone, he shares that Tara is now a therapy dog for the local hospital. So, Joey asks if he would visit his Uncle Nick with Tara, who isn鈥檛 doing so well. Upon fulfilling his request, Uncle Nick says something that leads Andy to believe there is more to the crime that was unknown at the time, that convicted Joey. So, what can he do with this information? Is it enough to re-open the case? And, could it possibly prove his client is truly innocent, as Andy has always believed?
With adept attention to details that provide clues to readers, Rosenfelt provides twists and turns that will keep readers a bit off-balance. But the page-turning energy still continues up to the final page. With a truly great ending twist!...more
The book cover shares a question at the top which states鈥�
鈥淲hat if the witness was more twisted than the killer?鈥�
Entering the prologue, readers can鈥檛 The book cover shares a question at the top which states鈥�
鈥淲hat if the witness was more twisted than the killer?鈥�
Entering the prologue, readers can鈥檛 help but be left with a lot of questions about Ruby Johnson, especially when her own grandmother shared 鈥榯here is something wrong with Ruby.鈥� Is Ruby the twisted witness #8? And, who is the killer? And, why?
Enter Eddie Flynn, defense attorney. This book is part of the Eddie Flynn series, so it is recommended that readers consider reading these books in order to gain a better perspective and history of the characters. Still, the author does a good job of catching readers up, so it could be read as a stand-alone.
A murder occurs. A witness sees what is happening and decides to use it to their advantage. And, a respected doctor is wrongly accused of the murder, a lot because of what the witness has put in motion. Why? What were the motives of the witness? Will Eddie Flynn and his team be able to find out the truth, and thus, prove their client innocent?
This is a twisted thriller with a captivating and riveting surprise outcome. Told from multiple points of view, this well-paced but imperfect plot page-turner with flawed and multi-layered characters will keep readers engaged....more
Well, wow, and oh my! This debut novel, got to me. I read this one cover to cover in one day. I say this, because I just couldn鈥檛 put it down. The stoWell, wow, and oh my! This debut novel, got to me. I read this one cover to cover in one day. I say this, because I just couldn鈥檛 put it down. The story captured me from the first page. A captivating look into an unusual not always likable character who has obviously endured some trauma in her life that readers discover during flashbacks.
Claire is the character I refer to, as does the title of this book. The darling part of the title will become obvious early on. Claire is our unreliable narrator. And, we feel lots of feelings about Claire and her diary entries about her 鈥榣oving鈥� relationship with Noah.
But is it all that it seems? And, when the courtroom drama begins, because of something horrible that happened, what do readers discover? (No spoilers from me.)
Let鈥檚 just say this was a fast-paced, imperfect, psychologically twisty, deviously provocative, unpredictable story that was immensely engrossing. With a haunting, disturbing and intricate plot that will most likely capture readers attention. Best read going into the story blindly....more
This author has many characters/series. And, stand-alone books. For the most part, I admire his writing, and enjoy whenever a new book of his comes ouThis author has many characters/series. And, stand-alone books. For the most part, I admire his writing, and enjoy whenever a new book of his comes out. This one is the 2nd in his Keera Duggan series. Keera is a defense attorney. And, one of my favorite genre鈥檚 is courtroom drama. So, this is what attracted me to this particular series.
The first book in this series was, 鈥淗er Deadly Game.鈥� Review here: /review/show... But since it had been a while since I read the first book, I did not feel it hindered reading this book as a stand-alone. Of course, if possible, it is always encouraged to read books in series order for the best background on characters.
So, now we are to this book. And, I could see immediately that readers were going to face an interesting dilemma along with their main character, Keera.
The question and concern being, what happens when Keera鈥檚 father Patsy expects her to defend Jenna Bernstein, someone she did not trust or care for while growing up, and considered a lying, manipulative, possibly narcissistic, psychopathic b---h?
Not only that, but Keera鈥檚 father defended Jenna previously and got her a not guilty verdict for a murder she was accused of committing. And, now Jenna is the prime suspect in this second murder, years later. What is Keera to do? Does Keera believe that even though Patsy won the first case, that it was beyond reasonable doubt? More importantly, do we as readers?
And, that becomes the gist of this story.
The questions evolving in readers minds will no doubt include how Keera can defend Jenna if she believes her to be guilty. Especially defending Jenna when she does not like or trust her. Wouldn鈥檛 Keera rather drop out of the case because she felt it was time for Jenna to take responsibility for any of her actions? Or could Jenna be innocent, despite her personality defects?
These questions will probably consume readers as they read on. Hoping the author will eventually get to the point. This in itself could possibly frustrate readers. But eventually we do get to the courtroom, and all the drama and twists provide for a relatively satisfying ending....more
For anyone who has ever read Dame Agatha Christie or anything about her, they will know that she travelled a lot, and thus her characters did, too. ItFor anyone who has ever read Dame Agatha Christie or anything about her, they will know that she travelled a lot, and thus her characters did, too. It definitely broadened her storytelling, and gave an international scenic flair to a lot of her stories.
The editor of this story is Mathew Prichard, the grandson of Agatha Christie, his Nima. And, this book is the telling of his grandmother鈥檚 10-month sailing trip around the world. Which she took with her then husband, Archibald Christie, who was part of the trade mission to promote the 1924 British Empire Exhibitions.
This book, in her writing, includes her notes, postcards, pictures and letters that were sent to family while she was away. Even leaving her then 2-year-old daughter, Rosalind (Rosy) in the care of her sister.
Prichard makes mention that this trip took place 90 years ago to the day of his writing the book, a 2012 publication. And, here I am reading and reviewing about it 105 years later! So, how did that come to be?
This book was displayed prominently at my local library in celebration of Women鈥檚 History Month this March, 2025. Being a fan of Ms. Christie, I was curious to explore this personal aspect of her life. Especially as I looked into the young eyes of Madame Christie on the book cover.
Prichard begins by including a preface by Madame Christie from her book 鈥淎n Autobiography.鈥� And, then, as readers we are off on the adventure with her. We soon are aware of the carefree, youthful spirit, young wife enjoying the attentions of her husband (before his betrayal) that comprises our 鈥渢our guide.鈥�
As much as she may ask about her dear Rosy, we are certainly aware of her enjoyment of freedom that this trip is bringing to her. She is wild and flirty and fun, and, this is felt easily through her writings. This 鈥楪rand Tour鈥� also gives indications of the last days of the British empire, which showcased her rank and class, and an obliviousness to what was happening in the changing world.
For anyone who is a fan of Christie鈥檚 mysteries, she is enthusiastic about the various people she meets on the journey. Which leads one to ask, could some of her future characters have been a caricature of some of the people she met on this adventure?
Those who love her mysteries, or are fans of historical travel narratives, this may be an appealing view of the past through one鈥檚 favorite author鈥檚 rose-colored glasses. Even Christie鈥檚 stories, seen through modern eyes, still have the power to captivate....more
For anyone who is a fan of this iconic television show, it is always nice to have the opportunity to re-visit Mrs. Fletcher in books. It is amazing hoFor anyone who is a fan of this iconic television show, it is always nice to have the opportunity to re-visit Mrs. Fletcher in books. It is amazing how these stories still go on, long after the cancellation of the television series, and the death of its talented star, Angela Lansbury.
This story which was published in 2015 has Cliff Cooper who mysteriously died too soon, leaving his historical home in beautiful Cabot Cove, Maine to be sold. His wishes are that his grandson who is off traveling in Alaska can be financially comfortable, and not tied to the home. Cliff had raised his grandson Elliott when Cliff鈥檚 son and daughter-in-law (Elliott鈥檚 parents) left for South America.
The home lined with 1,000鈥檚 of books hoarded and read over the years by Cliff, leaves Jessica at odds with the real estate salesperson, who wants it devoid of ghosts. All Jessica wants to do is set-up a book sale that will benefit the local library. ...more
鈥淗ey, everyone, I鈥檓 home. Come on in. I鈥檒l leave the light on.鈥�
I use to be a big fan of the television dance competition show, 鈥淪o You Think You Can D鈥淗ey, everyone, I鈥檓 home. Come on in. I鈥檒l leave the light on.鈥�
I use to be a big fan of the television dance competition show, 鈥淪o You Think You Can Dance.鈥� And, I remember the author as an amazing contemporary dance artist, who even went on to do well in the ABC television show, 鈥淒ancing with the Stars.鈥� But I was most fond of her husband, who was known as, tWitch. When he got on stage, the whole room seemed to light up with his magical presence. And, the well-deserved applause for him was typically deafening.
鈥淚f you think about it, dance is like love. It鈥檚 all around us if you鈥檙e paying attention.鈥�
I was thrilled to watch his success from the sidelines, as he branched out to be Ellen DeGeneres鈥� D.J., on her long-running talk show, and eventually one of her co-executive producers. But mostly I always loved to watch him dance. And, when he and his wife (author) set up a You-Tube channel of their dances, I always enjoyed watching their playful, joyous movements and the chemistry between them.
Needless to say, when tWitch committed suicide, I, along with everyone else who was a fan, were left in shock. How could this bright, shining star with so much talent, and the love of a good wife and precious young family make this decision to check-out of the world? Nothing made sense. And, as articles trickled forward, I searched for answers.
鈥淲hat made him believe that suicide was an appropriate response to whatever he was going through?鈥�
Why was I so invested in knowing more?
I鈥檇 like to believe that sometimes when we follow a 鈥渃elebrity鈥� from a distance, we like to pretend that the persona they present is truly them. And, it makes sense for us to applaud their successes, and embrace the joyful art and talent that they bring to us, as their fans. So, when Holker decided to write this story, despite the tabloids interest in condemning her for it, I was interested in reading it. I just wanted to know more about who these two were 鈥� and, especially what would lead tWitch to drop out of living.
鈥淚f you lead with light, you鈥檒l always be headed in the right direction.鈥�
This is truly Holker鈥檚 story. One told from a place of grief and love for a partner who made such a difference in her life. She is not here to shame or blame anybody. If anything, she is attempting to be a guide that asks others to pay attention to loved ones when you have an intuitive sense that something is not right. Look for the signs. Ask questions.
鈥淏e persistent. It can鈥檛 hurt, and it just might save a life.鈥�
This is a well-written memoir, shared compassionately with her readers. Readers get an inside view into the author鈥檚 dance journey, her love story and the grief of losing her partner.
This isn鈥檛 just an opening into Holker鈥檚 past, it is also a light onto the before and after of tWitch鈥檚 decision, whom she refers to lovingly throughout by his given name, Stephen.
If anyone wonders, as the author questioned why he did what he did, she does her best to answer those questions. But she has done it at some sacrifice, through reactions to her book by his family, some of his friends/colleagues and fans. Still, I didn鈥檛 see her revelations as a way to discredit or dishonor tWitch鈥檚 memory.
I believe the author truly felt that having someone close who commits suicide, there were signs she missed. And, through her own self-discovery into understanding him, his motives, his changes, and what could have led up to his fateful moment, maybe others may benefit from her story. So, that they don鈥檛 miss the signs, and possibly can prevent it from happening to their loved one. Whether she was successful getting her message across or not is dependent upon each reader鈥檚 interpretation of her truth.
She is a heart-felt storyteller that shares how to navigate grief. It is a thoughtful and inspiring story. I commend the author鈥檚 courage. And, I recognize that not all readers will see or feel this about her....more
I had such an emotional reaction to his book, 鈥淲e begin at the end鈥� I wasn鈥檛 sure whether I was ready for this one. Review here: https://www.goodreadsI had such an emotional reaction to his book, 鈥淲e begin at the end鈥� I wasn鈥檛 sure whether I was ready for this one. Review here: /review/show...
So, I didn鈥檛 request this book at my local library. But then, this book was donated to my Little Free Library Shed. It has been on the bestseller list. I knew now I had no excuse for not reading it. After all, it was beckoning me to read it by now being present for me to read. And, I could take my time with it. Especially coming in at 592 pages. Fortunately, it had relatively short chapters, some as little as 1 page and as much as 3 pages, making it easier to read.
Still, the question is, would I have the same reaction to this novel as I did to 鈥淲e begin at the end?鈥�
The answer is鈥es.
There is so much to this story that can affect readers. And, I don鈥檛 want to give anything away because it is a complicated, epic story that deserves to be read. It is suspenseful, and fascinating at the same time. It is part crime fiction, part coming-of-age, as well as a heart-wrenching love story. A most fierce and determined love story. It is amazing that the author could create all of this in one book 鈥� albeit, nearly 600 pages!
So, what happens when the story explores the line between triumph and tragedy? Or people鈥檚 perceptions of right and wrong and how this can change?
One way is as readers we become vested in the characters.
Because the characters are memorable, intriguing and multi-layered. As readers we are curious about them as they start off as teens before the novel unfolds over decades. The story is atmospheric and surprisingly satisfying, even as we wonder how far this author is going to take us emotionally.
Will we be immersed in these characters lives, too? I think so. And, hopeful, too. Which enables those of us who typically steer clear of long novels, to feel almost sad when the last page is finally reached....more
This is the 2nd book in the Dream Harbor series. The first story was called 鈥淭he Pumpkin Spice Caf茅.鈥� I鈥淐ome with me, lass, if you want an adventure.鈥�
This is the 2nd book in the Dream Harbor series. The first story was called 鈥淭he Pumpkin Spice Caf茅.鈥� It told the story of Jeanie and Logan. So, even though this book is interconnected with book 1, it still can be read as a stand-alone.
To be honest, I wasn鈥檛 attracted to this story because it was the 2nd in the series. What got my attention was the title of the book. (The fact that the story includes a bookstore as a backdrop, is appealing, too!) And, I love the book cover. Look at that scene! Books, and more books, a cat entering the bookstore, and the sweet smell of freshly cooked cinnamon buns. Okay, we obviously can鈥檛 smell them, but what is life without a little imagination? After all, isn鈥檛 that at least one of the reasons we read?
This book tells the story of Hazel Kelly and Noah. For Hazel who has spent the last 15 years working at the bookstore in Dream Harbor, she is suddenly realizing how much life she hasn鈥檛 lived yet. And, how important it is for her to find adventure before her 30th birthday coming up in September.
And, then there is Noah, who came to the town to escape a family business, and do something that suits his style and interest more. What can Noah do for Hazel to help her find the adventure she craves, and perhaps, maybe even help her find him in the process?
And, what better way to add to the characters experience than a tiny mystery. Where quote clues are left in romance novels, through highlighting a specific passage. Who dares to write inside a book shelved for sale? Will these clues give Hazel direction for where her adventure can take her? Still, who is the mystery clue writer? And, were these clues left for Hazel specifically to find? And, will Noah be able to fulfill Hazel鈥檚 dreams for change in her life, which may lead to both experiencing a HEA? I know, lots of questions to be answered, right? What better way to peak readers interest about the book!
This is another cute, easy-to-read, slightly spicy and sweet cozy from this author, who knows how to create likable characters readers want to embrace....more
Have you ever walked into a story and felt like you were in the middle of a horror movie? Like everything you are reading feels creepy and dark and haHave you ever walked into a story and felt like you were in the middle of a horror movie? Like everything you are reading feels creepy and dark and haunting 鈥� not just the plot, but the characters? And, as you read you wonder if you can get in to the story when you don鈥檛 like anybody, and you don鈥檛 care what happens to anyone?
Well, that is how I felt with this book. Now, it is important to understand that I am not a fan of the horror genre. I am not into creepy crawly things in the night. And, I don鈥檛 like to be scared when I turn a corner, only to be faced with some form of evil that I cannot unsee. So, you really won鈥檛 see many, if any book reviews on books that have this intention.
So, how did I find myself here? Well, I have read a lot of your reviews of Samantha Downing books, and I was curious.
With this story, readers are thrust into Belmont Academy, a prestigious private school with a record for such excellence, that most likely students can find themselves at any Ivy League college upon graduation. After all, their parents are rich and influential. Shouldn鈥檛 that be enough? Unfortunately, Belmont Academy also has a history of community members, and some faculty and staff members dropping dead under suspicious circumstances. Is there a killer loose at this prestigious academy?
Needless to say, this is a very unsettling and atmospheric thriller with lots of twists, eerie characters, and psychological suspense. It almost feels like, if we listen closely, we can hear the music they play in the background of movies that are warning you that something sinister is about to happen. And, with this story, it always does. But unfortunately, the music doesn鈥檛 come to give readers warnings. So, how do I get that music out of my head as I quickly turn pages?
The story is told from multiple perspectives, which adds to the tension created by the author. Leaving readers wondering, who really is the bad guy here 鈥� and what really happened? Who can we believe to be the truth teller? And, with an ending like this one, well, no spoilers from me.
This twisty thriller has well-drawn characters and short chapters that will keep readers who enjoy psychological thrillers, on the edge to the very end. And, when readers get there, what will they possibly think? For this one, I have become more and more aware that psychological thrillers with vindictive, spiteful, cunning and devious characters, just aren鈥檛 my thing. But don鈥檛 let me stop you from reading this book....more
The author shares in their notes section at the end, 鈥淚 don鈥檛 like killing people.鈥� And yet, that is exactly what readers will experience. Soon to be The author shares in their notes section at the end, 鈥淚 don鈥檛 like killing people.鈥� And yet, that is exactly what readers will experience. Soon to be dead persons. With some unlikable characters. Does that mean we are glad the person died? When did readers become so callous? To say more would provide spoilers, and that is not my thing to offer.
So, I will share only the premise, that a very popular author of mysteries is found dead, and everyone in her hemisphere is considered a suspect.
What I can say is that this is a clever who-dunit that will most likely hook readers from the beginning. Of course, the fact that it is a large book with 470 pages, means that readers will need to be committed to wanting to stay with it. And, if they do, readers may feel rewarded by their tenacity, as they frantically turn pages to unravel the mystery. Regardless of how many pages need to be conquered.
It is also a story told from multiple points of view, with lots of characters to keep track of; and, many subplots. And, for those of us who don鈥檛 like keeping lists of characters, this may be a slight unfortunate distraction. But it still delivers a roller coaster ride of twists, suspense, tension and intrigue....more
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